summer 09 healing in his steps · the crowhurst christian healing centre for six months?” little...

STEPShealing in His

Summer 09

How many are your works, O Lord! In wisdom, you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Psalm 104:24 - NIV

In this issue

� In His HEALING STEPS summer 09

EditorialIn this Issue 2

Editorial 2 - 3 Mary Slater

Are you a Crowhurst Gift Aider? 3

Our Senior Chaplain writes 4 Peter McIntosh

Kay McIntosh writes 5

Moving on – staff changes 6 Peter McIntosh

Introduction to Rosemary Froggatt 7

Thanksgiving Day 7 Kath Batte

Bible study 8 Colin Crook

Thanksgiving to God 9 Short testimonies

Prayer and Painting Week 10 Maggie Freeman, Resident Artist

Prayer focus 11 - 14 Shirley Dawson

ME/CFS Retreat 15 Jeanette Hamer

A gift from Doris 16 Elaine Bishop

Communion – A short poem 17

Easter Retreat 18 - 19

Building update 20

Garden news 21

Book Review – God’s call to Heal 22 Rev David Payne

Noticeboard and calendar of events 23

I begin this editorial from The Old Rectory, having had the privilege of joining with others for the Easter Retreat. It has been a very reflective, prayerful and healing time and one that I would very much like to repeat next Easter.

Writing from the place itself is rather special. The birds are singing, the trees and shrubs are blossoming and there are sixteen ducklings on the pond. (I managed to photograph four of them!)

The Centre’s literature talks about ‘coming apart, being set aside for a while’ and that really is an apt description of time spent here. There are no distractions, no phones and no noise, just the opportunity to rest in the presence of the Lord. Even Jesus needed time apart, to pray quietly and spend precious time with His Father! He set us a good example!

In this issue

Peter and Kay will be leaving on Thanksgiving Day; both have written letters of farewells and thanks. We will miss them of course, but as Peter says in his letter, the time is right; they have done all they can. We are now entering a new phase in

In His HEALING STEPS summer 09 �

Editorialthe life of the Centre and trust that the Lord will provide the right people to continue the work. We give thanks to God for Peter and Kay’s service over the last four years and wish them every blessing as they move on.

Peter has written a book about his four years here at the Centre. He has called it ‘The Miracle Continues’ and he sees it is a sort of follow on from George Bennett’s book, ‘Miracle at Crowhurst.’ Peter writes with humour and seriousness, just as he preaches! Copies will be available on Thanksgiving Day at the price of £3.50 (I am sure he will be happy to autograph a copy for those who ask!)

Rosemary Froggatt is taking over the bookstall from Kay; she introduces herself later in the magazine.

Staffing

There have been a number of changes to staff. Jan, our Office Manager, left at the end of May and Malcolm, our accountant has retired. Peter has written a short appreciation of them both.

Albert and Agnes have returned to Poland; we thank them for their services here and wish them God’s blessing.

The building

There is an update on all the work that has been done over the winter.

The garden

The grounds are looking a picture of beauty and are a credit to our hardworking gardener, Desmond.

Thanksgiving Day

Saturday 18th July is a date for your diaries. It will be a day of thanksgiving and celebration, with worship, praise and song. Kath has written a short article on the day’s programme. Do come along with your packed lunches and enjoy fellowship and worship in the beautiful surroundings of The Old Rectory. The day will begin at 11 am with the morning service.

And finally; thank you to everyone who has sent in contributions for the magazine; they are always very welcome and appreciated. Plus if any of you take photos during your stay at The Old Rectory, please do send copies to the office, or e mail them to me. I am trying to build up a stock of photos and would like to have a varied selection of the Centre to use in the magazine. My e mail address is [email protected].

It only remains for me to wish you all an enjoyable and hopefully warm summer!

God bless, in Jesus’ name. Mary Slater

Are you a Crowhurst Gift Aider?If you are… then, thank you. We benefit by reclaiming twenty eight pence in tax for every pound you donate.

But please let us know if your circumstances change and you no longer pay Income Tax. We don’t want to inadvertently make false claims.

If you are not already a Gift Aider… and you pay Income Tax, please help us increase the value of your donations. We will send you a simple form to complete, and we will do the rest.

4 In His HEALING STEPS summer 09

Our Senior Chaplain Writes...

Dear Friends, In 1974 George Bennett wrote a book called ‘Miracle at Crowhurst.’ It described his time as Warden of the Centre and of God’s hand

at work here. Over forty years later I have had the pleasure of writing a sequel. It’s called ‘The Miracle Continues,’ though it’s not so much a book, but more a booklet. The title was suggested to me by James, Sales Director of our magazine publishers. I had called it ‘Another Miracle at Crowhurst,’ but he pointed out that God’s hand was still at work here, and more than one miracle had taken place. He was right of course, so my original title was happily changed!

Looking back on the four years that Kay and I have worked here, any renewal that has taken place at the Centre is entirely down to the working of God’s Spirit in this place. Yes He does need people to allow Him to function, but He is the inspirer and provider for His healing purposes.

It has been a joy to work here alongside so many servant hearts in an age where people too easily say nobody cares, or they are only out for what they can get. That has always been the extreme exception at Crowhurst, never the rule. We have experienced servant hearts at every turn, and I want to pay tribute and give thanks for all those who have worked with us over these past four years.

As we draw near to the time of our leaving on Thanksgiving Day on July 18th, we are being asked ‘What will you miss the most?’ The list is long! Kay writes her own thoughts but I

suspect they will be similar to mine. I will miss the amazing worship experiences, both at the big healing services and the small intimate gatherings. I will miss witnessing many peoples’ lives being changed, from down and out to lifted and alive. I will miss the good undemanding company of staff and colleagues. I will miss having someone empty my waste paper basket first thing in the morning, people who pray with you and for you and people who want to understand more of Christ’s love. I will miss the many moments of fun and laughter, not to mention the sticky buns at quarter to four! And the countryside was not such a bad place to live in either for a season!

The centre is ready to move forward to new things.

So I thank God, our Heavenly Father for providing us so with much in the time we have been given here. The Centre is ready to move forward to new things. Please pray daily for the new people now in place, particularly Jayne, our new Office Administrator and David, our new Bookkeeper. Pray especially for Kath as she faithfully fulfils the role of acting Senior Chaplain until such time as God appoints a successor. Pray for them all, knowing that prayer matters and makes a difference.

In another forty years I hope someone else writes a book entitled ‘The Miracle Never Stopped or stops?!’ In the meantime may God bless you all with His Love and Peace. Our very grateful thanks,

Peter McIntosh Senior Chaplain

In His HEALING STEPS summer 09 5

Kay McIntosh writes: The telephone rang at our home in Rustington. It was Peter. “How would you feel about me going to help out at

the Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre for six months?” Little did I know where my ‘yes’ would lead me!

The Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre has always been special to us. We both went on a Clergy/Doctors’ course in 1981 and after that were fairly frequent visitors, often taking folk in a minibus from the Elephant and Castle to the Thursday morning healing services.

Back to the day Peter rang from his meeting with the Trustees. My answer was yes because six months didn’t seem too long and I would be able to minister with Peter some of the time there. I already had a full life in our local church as an elder, with people to visit pastorally, preaching occasionally, arranging pulpit supply and organists, serving on the worship committee and running a Traidcraft Stall. I also worked as a volunteer in the Oxfam shop in Littlehampton so I didn’t see myself as being at Crowhurst too much! How wrong I was. The Lord had other ideas!

As Peter began his work I began to realise that God had also given me my own ministry there as well. After six months we were asked to stay on another year, and here we are four years later saying goodbye! What a clever God. If we had been asked initially to come for four years I think I would have thought twice! Naturally I gradually had to give up everything at church and one of the things I am really

looking forward to now, much as I have loved it here, is being part of a church family again. It’s been a wonderful privilege to be here. I’ve learned so much about our awesome God, about people and about myself. Being in ministry here reinforces the truth of God’s endless patient love - He loves every person as if they were the only one He had to love! To see people experiencing God’s healing in body, mind and sprit is humbling and exciting and increases one’s trust in the Lord a hundredfold.

It will be a wrench to leave. I will miss the Chaplaincy and Ministry Teams with all the friendships formed, the laughter, learning and even the tears. I will miss the staff who have such servant hearts. I will miss the daily worship, the delicious food, running the bookstall, the beauty of the grounds, the walks across the fields, the sheep, the lambs, and the beauty of each season, seen here in so much abundance. I will miss the guests, each one bringing their own personalities and spiritualities, and I will miss so many interesting conversations and laughter at meal times.

I know God has a new life for us as we move on. It was a big surprise to come here and with God being a God of surprises, who knows what the future holds? But our future is in His hands.

Love and peace

Kay


Jan Maslin our Office Manager since September 2005 is getting married! She left the Centre in May as did her wee dog Charlie. Both will be greatly missed. Jan transformed the

administrative side of the Centre’s life during her time here. She reorganised the office to be efficient and professionally run. She was a dedicated worker who on many occasions put in time and hours over and above what she was called to do, and took on several roles and responsibilities outside her paid remit. Jan was one of the key people whose gifts and skills enabled renewal to come to Crowhurst.

Moving onThe Centre owes her an enormous debt of gratitude for her commitment and faithfulness. We wish her and her husband every blessing in their new life and thank God for calling her to service in this place. Thank you Jan. May God’s Peace and healing love be with you both.

Malcolm Parker is also leaving. He will be retiring in June as we are now taking on a part time bookkeeper. Malcolm came and gave his invaluable accountancy services to the Centre in 2005 when we were without any such help. His expertise enabled essential bookkeeping and accounting to be carried out at a time when we were desperate for such professional support. We shall miss his company and friendship and thank him for all the care and support given to the Centre during this time of so many changes and renewal. We wish him well in his new days ahead; may he know many blessings as he lays this responsibility aside.

Jan’s replacement will be a new Office Administrator whose name is Jayne Stevens. In the next edition of the magazine there will be a profile of Jayne so we might be introduced to her more fully. Malcolm’s replacement is David Podivan who has much experience and expertise in the field of finance and accountancy. He too will feature in the autumn edition. We thank God that once again He has provided the right people to continue His work and mission within this Centre for new days yet to come.

Peter McIntosh

In His HEALING STEPS summer 09 �

Thanksgiving Day Saturday July 18th

Not my words but the words of the Psalmist, which we echo here at Crowhurst. It is also the reason we call this annual event Thanksgiving Day. The Lord is good! He has shown us His goodness in so many ways over the past year and we want to thank Him.

We hope as many people as possible will be able to join us as we give thanks for:

■ The Lord’s healing love at work in this place.

■ Peter and Kay’s ministries here over the past four years.

■ The continued growth of the ministry team.

■ God’s provision financially and of new people to work here.

■ The new entrance for people with disabilities.

■ The refurbishment of the dining room.

■ New furniture in the lounge.

■ New members of the Board of Trustees.

To name but a few!We know this will be a glorious day of celebration as we worship and share fellowship together. Of course the day will be tinged with sadness as we say goodbye to Peter and Kay but the Lord says, ‘Behold I am about to do a new thing.’ He is the one who is moving Peter and Kay on and He is the one who will provide the new leadership in His time. He is Lord and has sovereign rule in this place so we can give Him thanks for what He is about to do.

The day will begin with the morning service at 11 am. Do come along for the day or part of the day. Enjoy the peace of the place and the power of the worship.

Please bring a packed lunch - we will provide the drinks - and come armed with an umbrella! After all, the umbrella can be used as a parasol! Every blessing, Kath

With Kay’s departure, someone was needed to take over the bookstall. Rosemary Froggatt kindly offered her services and she introduces herself below:

‘Give thanks to the Lord for He is good.’


Jesus heals Peter’s Mother-in-law

There were four fishermen who worked their boats on Lake Galilee. They all lived in the same village – a place called Capernaum. (Caper means ‘village’. It was the village of Nahum the prophet.) The fishermen consisted of two sets of brothers who knew each other well. One of the brothers, Simon Peter, was headstrong – you know the sort – every time he opened his mouth he put his foot in it! Simon’s brother, Andrew was a much more thoughtful man, and I always think he had a very nice nature. The other two men were called James and John. They were very lively – so much so that Jesus later gave them a nickname. He called them ‘Boanerges’ - the ‘Sons of Thunder.’ These four brothers were the first men that Jesus called to be his disciples.

A few days later it was the Sabbath and all five men attended the synagogue in Capernaum. Part of it still stands today and you can see down to the floor level where Jesus walked. Jesus preached very powerfully at the service and drove out an evil spirit from a man. People were absolutely amazed at his authority.

After the service in the synagogue the five men trooped across to Simon’s house for their Saturday evening meal. Simon Peter’s mother-in-law lived in the house, which was literally a stone’s throw from the synagogue. I bet she was curious to meet Jesus; it may even have been her that issued the invitation to Jesus and the other new disciples.

No doubt the men were both hungry, and full of wonder at the way Jesus had taught in the synagogue and at his deliverance ministry. The only trouble was that when they got home, mum-in-law was laid up in bed with a bad fever.

So Jesus went to visit Simon Peter’s mother in law. He took her hand and helped her up. Immediately the fever left and she was healed. She had an instant healing; she was completely well. Verse 31 reads –

So there we are - one minute sick in bed and too ill to move, the next minute waiting at table on five hungry men. Nothing much has changed in two thousand years!

I just want to draw out two points from this brief story in the ministry of Jesus. The first is this. Women were very important in the life of Jesus. His ministry wasn’t nearly so male dominated, as some men would have you believe. All through his ministry women played an important role. A prostitute washed his feet with her tears. It was the women who remained near him on the cross when all the men had run away. It was women who went to the tomb on that first Easter Sunday morning. Jesus had a special affection for the sisters Martha and Mary. He spoke kindly to the woman who was caught in adultery, and there are many other examples in the gospels.

Then there was Simon. If he had a mother-in-law, then he had a wife. We know from other accounts that he was married. Other disciples may also have been married although scripture does not tell us that. What scripture does tell us is that as Jesus and his disciples went from place to place, the women accompanied them.

“The fever left her and she began to wait on them.”

Jesus heals Peter’s Mother-in-law


Mark 1:29-31

Many folk come to the Centre and although not everyone feels called to write in with their experiences, the Testimonies Book, which is kept outside the main Chapel, provides an opportunity to write a few words. These are just a small selection.

Thank you dear Lord with all my heart for the love, support and care given to me through your servants at Crowhurst, when I learned of the death of my son in Japan while staying here.

Thank you Lord for this wonderful experience of a perfect atmosphere, lovely friendship, beautiful prayers and ministry, excellent food and service and good accommodation.

Just a thank you. Thank you Lord. Thank you everyone here. I haven’t the words to explain just how much you have helped.

Thank you for this truly special place.

Thanks Lord; I was weary and heavy laden and I came to you here at Crowhurst. You took my burden off me and gave me rest. You also gave me grace and love. Thank you to all here who enabled that to happen. God bless you all.

Thank you Lord for meeting me when I came with reluctance, receiving and blessing me with such gentleness, restoring my soul and giving me hope for the future. The gentle music has been a real blessing and ministry this weekend.

The other thing that I want to mention briefly is that Jesus then and now always meets people at their point of need. Simon’s mother-in-law needed healing, and Jesus healed her. Instant physical healing still takes place today, though it is not very common and gradual physical healing is often the norm. Emotional and spiritual healings frequently take place, which is exciting to see.

Jesus meets all sorts of other needs and that is in itself healing. He does want us to bring those needs to him and perhaps as you read this you realize that you have needs for yourself or for someone else that you care about. Perhaps now is the time to bring those needs to him and just as he touched the life of Simon’s mother-in-law, so he is willing to touch yours.

Finally, if you have a story to share of how Jesus has touched your life, then please do let our editor know. It will be an encouragement to others.

Colin Crook


Prayer and Painting WeekDuring the lovely, warm weather in April, the grounds of The Old Rectory were blessed with many spring flowers and blossoming trees, and this was the theme that was enthusiastically embraced by the ten people who took part in the Prayer and Painting Week.

They produced paintings of outstanding beauty, and learned how to develop their skills with water colour, acrylics and pastels.

There will be another opportunity to take part in a Prayer and Painting week from Tuesday 25th to Sunday 30th August. Why not come and spend a few days drawing or painting under the expert tuition of our resident artist? The week is for beginners or for those more advanced and also includes time for worship and prayer.

The display and service of thanksgiving at the end of the retreat was a revelation that God had certainly touched peoples’ hearts in a powerful way during the week. It was a time when, brush in hand, we let go and let God work through us, to the glory and praise of His name. Maggie FreemanResident Artist

Prayer and Painting Week


Please pull out and keep for the coming months

Prayer Requests for Summer �009

Prayer Requests for Summer 2009

Prayer Focus: “Praise the Lord. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise Him.” Psalm 147:1

Prayer and Thanksgiving: “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” Psalm 126:3

Prayer

■ Give thanks and praise for the ministry of Peter and Kay during the past four years. We have been richly blessed by their love and dedication to the ministry of Christ’s healing touch here at the Centre. May grace, peace and love be theirs in abundance.

■ Give thanks and praise for the Lord’s continual provision for all our needs.

■ Give thanks and praise for the completion of the new entrance and toilet facilities for the disabled; for the completion of the rewiring, new lighting and decoration of the large chapel; for the provision of new furniture in the lounge.

■ Give thanks and praise for all those who so generously support the work of the healing ministry here. May they too be richly blessed.

“The Lord is faithful to all his promises and loving towards all He has made.” Psalm 145:13

June Prayer Focus:

“The Lord watches over you – the Lord is your shade at your right hand.” Psalm 121:5

June

10 Clergy Retreat

17 Quiet Day

19 – 21 Healing Retreat

“You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word.” Psalm 119:114

1� In His HEALING STEPS summer 09

July Prayer Focus:

“May the glory of the Lord endure for ever; may the Lord rejoice in His works.” Psalm 104:31

July

3 – 5 Healing Retreat

18 Thanksgiving Day

22 Quiet Day

24 – 26 Healing in the Psalms

31 – 2 Aug Healing Retreat

“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.” Psalm 100:1 & 2

August Prayer Focus:

“Those who trust in the Lord for help will find their strength renewed.” Isaiah 40:31

August

14 – 16 Healing and Suffering

22 Quiet Day

25 – 30 Prayer and Painting week

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1

In His HEALING STEPS summer 09 1�

Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre The Old Rectory, Crowhurst, Battle, East Sussex TN�� 9AD Telephone: 014�4 ��0�04 Bookings: 014�4 ��00�� Fax: 014�4 ��005� E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.crowhursthealing.org.uk


Prayer for The Old Rectory

Prayer Focus: “Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight.” Psalm 119:35

Prayer for the TrusteesColin Crook (Chair), Jim Beveridge, Shirley Dawson,Ted Landon, John Lyttle, Jane Thomas and Mavis Williams

■ Pray for wisdom and discernment as we wait upon the Lord’s provision for a new Senior Chaplain. May He lead and guide us to the person of His choice.

■ Pray for Kath and the Chaplaincy Team as they minister during the interregnum.

■ Give thanks for the legacies and donations that have financed all the recent improvements in the house and chapel. May we continue to be good stewards and make wise and Godly decisions during this time of recession.

■ Continue to pray for Charles Hooper and his wife, Prim. May they be aware of the Lord’s healing presence, strengthening and upholding them day-by-day.

“Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in His ways.” Psalm 128:1

Prayer focus for staff at The Old Rectory

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit – fruit that will last.” John 5:16

Senior Chaplain: Peter (until 18 July 2009)

Deputy Senior Chaplain: Kath

Chaplaincy Team: Colin/Kay/Margaret (Kay until 18 July 2009)

Ministry Team: Andy/Carole/Dawn/Gwen/Hazel/Hildegard/June/Kenneth/Maggie/Margaret/ Nigel/Penny/Pippa and Stephen

Finance Manager: David Podivan

House Manager: Heidi

House Team: Clare/Chrissy/Justine/Steve/Sue & Zanneta

Cooks: Diane and Fenella

Maintenance Manager: Geof

Gardener: Desmond

Office Administrator: Jayne Stevens

We said goodbye to Jan in May when she left to get married. We wish her and husband Nigel every blessing and happiness in the years ahead. We thank her for the way in which she has reorganised the office so efficiently, and we welcome Jayne Stevens, Jan’s replacement. We also said goodbye to Malcolm Parker and wish him every blessing in his retirement. We welcome David Podivan as his part time replacement.

Office Team: Gillian/Juliette and Wendy

Pianists: Pippa and Stephen

Voluntary Helpers: Christine/Evelyn/Jenny/Rosemary/Shirley and Yvonne

“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; share with God’s people who are in need. Practise hospitality.” Romans 12: 10 & 13


As I have been suffering from ME for five years, I find Psalm 84 very comforting. It talks of God providing springs of water as His people travel through the desert. The Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre has been one of these springs for me, and particularly so at the recent ME healing week.

From the moment of arrival, our group of fourteen felt cocooned in the atmosphere of The Old Rectory. The timetable had been thoughtfully organised to allow for rest times and the sessions were located in the lounge, giving us the freedom to lie down if needed.

The week was led by Helen Warwick, who has herself had ME. It was so reassuring to have someone who has walked the same painful pathway and who understood what we were going through. As she led us through the sessions, she was sensitive to our needs and opened up avenues of relaxation and meditating on God, which I found very helpful.

We explored ‘being in the now’ by putting our worries aside and relaxing in the presence of God. We discussed what we meant by healing and how it was connected to our inner being.

Healing Retreat for ME/CFS Sufferers

This was a new venture for the Centre, led by Helen Warwick, a former Occupational Therapist with training in Person-Centred Art. One of the guests shares her experiences of the retreat.

We focussed on the connections between body, mind and spirit and how a balance was needed between all three.

Helen gave us techniques to help with control and told us to listen to our bodies. If we do not then our bodies will start shouting at us and symptoms will increase. We need to focus on what gives us strength – both physically and spiritually. Like the springs I draw comfort from in Psalm 84, we need to find our places in the desert – to sit with God and let go.

The week ended with an informal communion in the lounge. As I was offered the chalice, I had the strong feeling that it was being offered by the Good Samaritan. He had bound my wounds and was offering me a drink; he then put me on his donkey for the journey, with him alongside. He gave provision for the future at no cost to me.

What a wonderful picture to leave the Centre with. God was going with me as I went home; supporting me and would be there to help me in the future, providing all I need. Jeanette Hamer

Helen will be leading a further ME/CFS Healing Retreat from Monday 7th September to Friday 11th September this year. The Retreat provides ‘A creative programme looking at healing and connecting to your own healing journey. Each morning there will be a themed talk covering issues such as finding treasures in the darkness, how the spiritual part of us supports our health, looking at our energy, getting the right balance in life and exploring the person you are, your needs and your purposes.’

Cost is £250 non en-suite and £280 for en-suite. Please telephone the office to make a booking but don’t leave it too long as this we anticipate the Retreat booking up quickly. Ed

March 16th – March 20th


Although I had often felt drawn to the subject of healing, it wasn’t until the early 1990’s that I let God take over my life. The late Leonard Wilson had become Moderator at our church and along with his wife, Isobel, introduced me to the work of the Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre. Also, Doris Kirby, a receiver of Crowhurst’s ministry, joined our church and we instantly became spiritual sisters.

In February 1997, I was suffering ‘burn out’ from all sorts of directions and she ‘badgered me’ to book in at The Old Rectory with her.

A gift from Doris Although it was only for the four day stay (without personal ministry as it was then) my life was turned around. From the first evening God spoke to me through the worship, scripture and prayer. I recognised myself as a ‘Jack of all trades and master of none.’ Brian Coward talked (or should I say listened) to me over coffee the next morning and, unheard of as it was then, arranged for and encouraged me to talk to the locum, Rob Rogers. Through prayer and tears the binding cords were being loosened and at Rob’s suggestion we went to the small chapel, where he anointed me for the healing ministry and where I received the blessing of the Holy Spirit. I was physically brought to my knees, lifted into another realm and for the rest of the evening I was visibly aglow. (Wow!)

The next day Doris thanked me for the beautiful song she had heard me sing that morning in the adjacent room. No one was more surprised than me as God certainly hadn’t blessed me with a musical gift in any direction!

The experience is as fresh as ever and I find it difficult to believe that it was eleven years ago. (Much has transpired since then.) That same year the Lord led us to a change of church in Ruislip Baptist, where we received wonderful fellowship and teaching.

In 1998 the Lord spoke to me through Psalm 84 and I became leader (another Wow!) of a new prayer group for Healing and Wholeness. We spent seven wonderful years there before moving towards my husband’s retirement but not without him having a heart attack first! I was reluctant to move but on another visit

What never ceases to amaze me is how God always has something to give me at The Old Rectory even though I am unaware of any need.

In His HEALING STEPS summer 09 1�

A gift from Doris This lovely poem was written in our Testimonies Book

CommunionIt was just a simple wafer, but to me it gave me life What passion did He give for me? A sinner full of strife.

It was just a taste of wine, but through me it flowed new life! Trouble and sorrow knew I none, as for me He gave His life.

Simple things fulfil our needs, when life is full to overflowing I hand it over to the Lord For He knows where I’m going

Not self-centred any longer. In my heart my faith is stronger And in my head my thoughts are pure He died for me, of that I’m sure.

Our Father knows what you needMatthew 6 v 8

I read the following from the Bible Notes by Father J Woolley: “There will be times when you will not see the immediate way ahead. It is sufficient for the moment to see Me! Do not feel that awful responsibility of choosing your path when that is unnecessary for the moment. Just hide in myself and know that you will soon see clearly. Until then, you are precisely where I want you to be.” Our Father knows what you need (Matthew 6 v 8.) In 2003 the Lord led us to Suffolk.

I have returned on many occasions to The Old Rectory with my husband, Doris and with friends in need. I have attended a number of teaching courses and have appreciated ‘letting go to flow’ through Maggie’s painting sessions. I am now coordinating the Pastoral Care Team at West Road Church in Bury St Edmunds in the beautiful God-given surroundings of the Suffolk countryside.

I miss my friend Doris, who went, with joy, to be with our Lord in August 2008 but I thank her for the wonderful gift she gave me in ‘badgering me’ to stay at the Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre that first time. What never ceases to amaze me is how God always has something to give me at The Old Rectory even though I am unaware of any need.

Elaine Bishop


Easter RetreatI had the privilege this year of taking part in the Easter Retreat. The sadness of Maundy Thursday, the heaviness of Good Friday, the ‘inbetween-ness (as Peter so aptly put it) of Holy Saturday and the joy of Easter Sunday was a perfect way to prepare for the season of Easter and I would thoroughly recommend booking in for next year! Ed

Maundy Thursday evening

Peter and Kay washed our feet to symbolise that we were all God’s servants, and to follow Jesus’ example when he washed the feet of His disciples on the eve of the Last Supper. We then shared a very moving last supper together around one of the tables in the dining room, to remember the last night Jesus spent with His disciples.

Good Friday three hour vigil

We began our Good Friday Vigil at 12 noon and later, in silence, shared a buffet lunch. Between 2 and 3 pm Margaret led us in a very powerful, prayerful and reflective service to commemorate the crucifixion of Christ.

Easter Saturday evening – Lights of Easter

We sat in a circle in the small chapel, around a table on which there was a large candle. This candle represented the light of Christ and Peter asked each of us to share our thoughts on the light of Christ in our lives. The diverse accounts were a clear example of how each one of us is unique to God and although He ministers to each and every one of us, our

I have found the Easter Retreat very meaningful. Susan

I felt refreshed and strengthened by the Lord’s presence. Betty

I appreciated the prayerful atmosphere and carefully constructed programme.

The Retreat was wonderfully led, meaningful, relaxing.

A wonderful few days, with the opportunity to prepare for a great Easter.

Since coming to the Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre, I have found that God has spoken to me in different ways. He is confirming me in my beliefs and also in my way of living. “All my ways are not your ways”

The programme was sensitively planned and I really felt I was sharing with Christ on his final few days on earth.

Some of the guests share their experiences:

seems to be the phrase that He is saying to me. I trust in God to show me ways to help others and reach out to as many people as possible. Frances


experiences are all very different. This adds to the richness of His relationship with us.

As each person shared their reflections, they lit a small candle and placed it around the larger one. It was a very moving occasion and the candles in the darkened chapel added to the prayerful atmosphere.

Easter Sunday

Some of us gathered, bleary eyed, at 6 am for an early morning service around the water feature. Peter reminded us that it was in a quiet garden where the empty tomb was discovered, and it was appropriate that we too were in a quiet place to reflect and remember this incredible event. ‘Amazing Love, O what sacrifice, the Son of God, given for me!’

Peter said there would be many services of joyful praise and thanksgiving today to celebrate Christ’s glorious resurrection, and it is indeed a celebration, but it also seemed

equally fitting to participate in an early morning quiet time and to reflect on just how the followers of Christ were feeling after the upsetting events of the past few days; they were fearful, depressed, sorrowful and unbelieving; emotions to which we can all relate at times!

After this very moving short service of prayers and hymns, we went back to our rooms. Breakfast wasn’t for another hour and a half, though we were all pretty hungry by then, having been awake since the early hours. The lovely breakfast in the dining room is always very plentiful and it was particularly welcome that morning! There was an atmosphere of joy and peace among us; it almost felt as we had been there when the empty tomb was discovered by Mary Magdalene and the other disciples.

Later in the morning the group gathered together again for a joyful communion service of praise and thanksgiving. Peter reminded us that the tomb is EMPTY and that we should be celebrating Jesus’ glorious resurrection. He said that those in Heaven would be celebrating with us today! How amazing is that! Margaret shared with us her experience in Africa, when on Easter Sunday morning, very poor people walked through the night to hear the Good News in a church in which she was preaching. She said these people were full of praise! And we too were full of praise as we finished our service with the wonderful hymn, Thine be the Glory, a wonderful conclusion to a very prayerful, reflective and healing Easter Retreat. Many of us have said we would like to book in again for next year.

The new entrance and toilet for the disabled is now completed and fully functional. Sovereign have done a superb job and we give thanks to God for the provision of His funds, through the faithfulness and generosity of His people.

And after!

Steve putting the finishing touches!

Before!

Building Update

�0 In His HEALING STEPS summer 09

The large chapel has been completely rewired and redecorated. It was out of action for several weeks and the healing services were held in the dining room but the services were still reflective and prayerful, proving that God is not confined to any one place.

The sun lounge has been completely repainted and looks fresh and bright. The new furniture in the lounge looks lovely and we are grateful to Jan and Heidi who travelled all the way to Cardiff to choose it.

The new and very

spacious wing corridor!

A guest made this comment in our Testimonies Book:

“Thank you to whoever looks after the gardens and grounds; they are really beautiful and interesting.”

How true is that statement! The grounds looked beautiful during spring, thanks to Desmond’s hard work over the autumn and extremely cold winter. Although this is a summer edition, I have included a selection of spring flower photos because they really were such a picture of beauty!

Desmond’s work never stops and apart from making sure there is an abundant and diverse supply of flowers, he has re-stained several benches and tables in the grounds and trimmed back some of the many hedges. He has also been busy preparing a new border outside the art room, which will no doubt provide inspiration to those who like to paint or draw!

The numerous bulbs that Desmond had planted in the autumn meant a continual supply of cut flowers for the dining tables, so guests were able to enjoy the beauty of God’s creation in the house as well as the grounds.

Our hardworking gardener has a variety of plants planned for the summer, from gladioli, lupins, iris hollyhocks, cosmos, antirrhinums and many different bedding plants, so on Thanksgiving Day we can look forward to a blaze of colour and beauty in the grounds.

Garden news

In His HEALING STEPS summer 09 �1

�� In His HEALING STEPS summer 09

I must declare at once a ‘personal interest’ in servicing this quite excellent book. I knew both Bishop Morris and Anne Maddocks for some thirty years. The friendship was cemented when they spent ten weeks on a sabbatical at The Old Rectory in the

summer of 1982. It was an incredible privilege to have such a delightful couple as our guests. I recall in particular taking them out just before dusk to watch (in silence) the badgers and their cubs. Morris and Anne were spellbound! They were like two small schoolchildren!

They were often referred to as Bishop Morris and Anne and their marriage was truly made in Heaven. They formed a quite romantically close bond of love and service together. Anne was a real virtuoso organist, as is clearly portrayed in the book. She was some sixteen years older than Morris and a quite remarkably gifted musician.

Morris met his beloved Anne locally on the organ stool in Chichester Cathedral. They were married there in 1955 and after some forty years of deeply shared ministry they retired to their beloved Chichester to spend their latter years, where their return was a most happy event.

Theologically Morris came from an ‘Anglo Catholic’ vicarage tradition and was clearly led in early years into the healing ministry. Of his several excellent books, ‘The Christian Healing Ministry’

remains a real classic, a work of profound scholarship, theology and Christian wisdom.

The ten chapters outline Morris and Anne’s pilgrimage together and is an easy and enjoyable read. Rather than enumerate each chapter, I would unhesitatingly say Read the Book! Morris’ vision of the Acorn Trust was truly inspired. He had a firm belief that Christian Healing and Medicine and Psychiatry went hand in hand. He was an honorary member of the British Medical Association and was regularly invited to speak at gatherings where medics were present. He was widely respected not only amongst the clergy, but also among medics.

The Acorn Trust still flourishes and I was privileged to be present at its silver celebrations last year at the Central Hall, Westminster, an occasion which would have rejoiced Morris and Anne’s hearts. (The Reverend Russ Parker is now the Director.)

Morris had an infectious, bubbling sense of humour and a twinkle in his eye. Towards the end of his life, He would still sing excerpts from the Cambridge Footlights – ‘I’m a Botticelli Angel etc’ (Bishop Simon Phipps was also a member of The Footlights.)

Providentially the script of the book was just about complete at the time of his death in St Richard’s Hospital, Chichester.

I would unhesitatingly recommend this book. It is a wonderful testimony to the grace of God in two quite remarkable Christian people.

Rev David Payne Warden at Crowhurst, 1978 1982

Book Review

God’s Call to Heal by Bishop Morris Maddocks ISBN:978-0-281-05990-4: Published by SPCK. Prices vary from £8.99 (Amazon) to £9.99 elsewhere.

CALEnDAR OF EVEnTS

For further information and bookings: Telephone 01424 830033

Web Site www.crowhursthealing.org.uk

Many people are finding us on the web. If you have access please give us your comments, in particular any items you would like to see included.

In His HEALING STEPS summer 09 ��

June10 June Clergy Retreat17 June Quiet Day19 - 21 June Healing Retreat

July3 - 5 July Healing Retreat18 July Thanksgiving Day22 July Quiet Day24 - 26 July Healing in the Psalms 31 July - 2 Aug Healing Retreat

August14 - 16 August Healing and Suffering22 August Quiet Day25 - 30 August Prayer and Painting week

Noticeboard

Quiet Days – The quiet days are an ideal time to come and spend a prayerful and reflective day at the Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre. The day begins with coffee in the lounge, with welcome/introductions to the leader of the day.

The day is divided into several sessions led by the leader and participants are encouraged to spend the rest of the day, including lunch, in silence. There is an opportunity at the end of the day to have fellowship and chat over tea at 3.45. The day is like a ‘mini retreat’ and the silence gives an opportunity to really focus on the Lord. The few days I have attended have really lifted me spiritually and given me much to think about. If you have never been to one of these quiet days before, I would really encourage you to give it a try. There is a suggested donation of £15.00, which includes lunch. They get booked up quite quickly so do give the office a ring and book a place on one of those listed below. Ed

Wednesday June 17th, led by Rev’d Kate Gray. ‘God’s Welcome: Belongings & blessings as signs of the hospitality of Jesus.’

Wednesday July 22nd, led by Kenneth Gubbins. ‘Rivers of Life.’

August 22nd, led by Sue King ‘Bread for the journey.’

Healing in the Psalms:Friday 24th to Sunday 26th July A relaxed and renewing weekend which provides an opportunity to look at favourite psalms to hear what they say for our own personal healing and wholeness.

How to contact us

Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre The Old Rectory, Crowhurst, Battle, East Sussex TN33 9ADTelephone: 01424 830204Bookings: 01424 830033Fax: 01424 830053E-mail: [email protected]: www.crowhursthealing.org.ukThe office is open from 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday and 9am - 1pm Saturday For a brochure, programme or further information please contact the Secretary

Whilst this magazine is issued free of charge an annual donation of £10.00 to cover costs is most helpful. If you are able to Gift Aid your donation then this adds another �5p for every £1 you give. Details of Gift Aid can be obtained from the office. Cheques should be made payable to The Crowhurst Christian Healing Centre.

Published and distributed by: The Divine Healing Mission Registered Charity Number 208738Designed and printed by Yeomans, 2 Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, Kent TN11 6BT Tel: 01892 839280 www.yeomanscreative.co.uk

Who’s who

President Rt Revd Nicholas Reade BISHOP OF BLACKBURN

Visitor Rt Revd Wallace Benn BISHOP OF LEWES

Chairman of Trustees Revd Colin Crook

Senior Chaplain Revd Peter McIntosh

Deputy Senior Chaplain Revd Kath Batte

Chaplaincy Team Margaret Gubbins, Kay McIntosh

Magazine Editor Mary Slater

Home Intercessors Co-ordinator Shirley Dawson

summer 09 healing in his steps · the crowhurst christian healing centre for six months?” little...

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